Untested transducers can lead to inaccurate diagnosis

Preventative probe testing can discover minor problems before they turn into expensive failures.

Most probes can be repaired for a fraction of the cost of a new replacement.

We can test up to 100 probes per day and will work with you or your EBME team to minimise any possible disruption to your daily routine.

Let’s work together to put patient safety and diagnostic accuracy at the top of the agenda.

How it Works

1

Decide if you want a first call or phantom test day

2

Contact us with any questions and arrange your session

3

We turn up as arranged and perform your test

4

You get a full test report with recommendations

Which test is right for you?

Probe Hunter vs Phantom

Both test types provide a high level of detail and accuracy. The test that's right for you will depend on the type of probes you have and your preference around when and where we test them.

With a Phantom we can test any brand of machine but they need to be attached to an ultrasound system while the test is conducted. (it's a quick process though) With the Probe Hunter there are slightly more limitations on which brands we can test but there is more flexibility around where and when we test, as it doesn't need to be connected to a machine.

The best thing to do is give us a call to discuss it in more detail or we can come to your site for a non obligatory pre-assessment to talk you through it and work out how to get the most from your day.

Why should you test your probes?

Ultrasound transducers are inevitably the weak link in an ultrasound system. As well as natural degeneration through usage, probes are highly sensitive and easily damaged. Knocks, drops and general heavy-handedness can impact sensitive crystals and connectors but damage can be even more subtle. The type of gel used or how it is cleaned can also negatively impact the performance. (Tip: use specialist wipes not paper towels)

35% of all tested ultrasound probes show defects when tested. The extent of the defect will determine if the probe should be taken out of operation for immediate repair, scheduled for later repair or left to be re-monitored at a later date.

The test system FirstCall reveals any early changes in your probes that may be cost-effectively repaired before the probe fails or requires repairs of a greater expense.

How often should you have your probes tested?

The accepted guidance is that all probes should be tested at least every 12 months - however, hospitals tend to have heavy usage and often choose to test every 6 months with us.

How will you know if your probe needs testing?

There are a few obvious cases where a connection has come loose, there may be physical damage to your kit or some severe crystal drop-out. We have found that 35% of all tested ultrasound probes show a defect and many of those can't be seen on screen or through visible inspections to the naked eye. A thorough test using specialist equipment is the only way to identify any problems early. If you don’t carry out regular probe testing, you could be using a defective probe and by the time you do discover the damage; it could be hundreds of patients too late (and a lot more expensive to resolve) Putting patient care first means ensuring that you have the very best equipment in the best conditions achievable.